Sandro Tonali to Arsenal transfer details as Newcastle issue brutal response on deadline day

Newcastle United have rejected suggestions that they're in talks with Arsenal over a deadline day move for Sandro Tonali.

It was claimed on Monday morning that the Gunners were exploring a move for the Italy international. Sky Sports Germany reported that talks over a move had taken place with Arsenal looking to do a deal before tonight's 7pm deadline after losing Spain international Mikel Merino to injury. Merino is due to undergo foot surgery.

But landing one of Newcastle's best players always looked a long shot, and, unsurprisingly, has been given short shrift by the Magpies, who have dismissed any suggestion of Tonali departing, labelling it "stupid" and "complete rubbish".

The Italy international joined Newcastle on an initial five-year deal after completing a £55m move from AC Milan in July 2023, but he was subsequently banned for 10 months in October of that year by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) for breaching betting rules. Tonali signed a contract extension during his betting ban, which means his deal will now run until 2029. But the North East club also has the option to trigger an additional 12-month extension to 2030.

It follows Toon boss Eddie Howe admitting on Saturday night, following the 4-1 defeat against Liverpool at Anfield, that the only player who could leave the club ahead of tonight’s deadline was Jamaal Lascelles. Howe said: "The only one who could possibly leave is Jamaal Lascelles." And when asked if there will be any new incomings, the Newcastle boss replied: “No.”

FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE!Latest Gunners news and more on our dedicated Facebook page

Arsenal could be on the hunt for midfield reinforcements today, with Merino set to undergo surgery on a bone injury in his right foot in the coming days. Confirming the injury, a club statement read: "Mikel will have surgery in the coming days and will then begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme.

"Mikel is expected to be out of action for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of the season. Everyone is fully focused on supporting Mikel to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible."

While Merino said: "Time to stop now with a foot injury. Sometimes life throws this kind of challenges when is less convenient.

"Just another opportunity to be strong, resilient and overcome it. We have the best medical team and together we will come back stronger.

"Thank you all, your support means everything to me and I can't wait to be back on the pitch soon, helping my team and doing what I love."

In terms of midfield cover, Arsenal have Declan Rice, Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Kai Havertz as options. The Gunners are currently six points clear at the top of the Premier League table after both Manchester City and Aston Villa slipped up at the weekend.

Click here to read article